Captain Gary James Worth

Captain Gary James Worth, 85, passed away on December 13, 2025-his birthday-at Holy Cross Hospital in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Born on December 13, 1940, Gary was the son of Melvin Raymond Worth and Viola Vista Landis, as well as his loving stepmother, Kay Worth. He lived a full and remarkable life marked by service, innovation, friendship, and love.
Gary was truly a man of many talents, many friends, and a wonderful personality. He began his career in network television at the age of 16, working in Stuart, Florida, for WSTU as a part-time teen disc jockey-an early start to a lifelong career in broadcasting.
He served his country with honor during the Vietnam War as a navigator, helping bring American troops out of the theater and transporting wounded soldiers to hospitals, providing care and hope during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Following his military service, Gary continued his dedication to public service as a police officer.
Gary went on to leave a lasting legacy in the television industry. He played a significant role in establishing satellite delivery for the 22 superstations, working with FCC licensing and helping to assemble several of the television networks that audiences continue to enjoy today. He served as Network President for Mutual Broadcasting and WOLD Communications, where his leadership and vision helped shape the industry.
After retiring from network leadership, Gary founded his own company, Starcom Television Services. Through his post-production and broadcast delivery business, he provided programming distribution for television content created by others, continuing to support and advance the medium he loved.
Gary is survived by his loving partner and husband of 31 years, James Geniuk, with whom he launched a second career that continued until his death, together creating and operating their own independent production companies. He is also survived by his half-brother, Jay Curtis; Jay's wife, Jolena; and their children, Bryce, Christopher, and Amanda, whom Gary cherished as his nephews and niece. He is also survived by and deeply loved by everyone in James's family, as well as by countless friends whose lives were enriched by knowing him.
Captain Gary James Worth will be remembered for his generosity of spirit, sharp intellect, sense of humor, and the many ways he gave of himself-to his country, his profession, and the people he loved.
Cheers to your name, Gary. You will be deeply missed and forever remembered.